Dutch Colonial House Design: A Classic Style That Endures The Test Of Time

January 28, 2023 Post a Comment

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Introduction

Dutch colonial house design has been around since the late 1600s, and it remains a popular style today. The classic design features a gambrel roof, which provides more living space on the upper floor. The style is also known for its symmetrical façade, central front door, and double-hung windows with shutters. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Dutch colonial house design, its key characteristics, and how you can incorporate it into your home.

The History of Dutch Colonial House Design

Dutch colonial house design originated in the Hudson Valley region of New York in the late 1600s. The Dutch settlers who built these homes brought with them a style that was common in their homeland. The design quickly spread throughout the region and eventually became popular throughout the colonies. One of the key features of Dutch colonial house design is the gambrel roof, which was inspired by the design of Dutch barns. The roof has two slopes on each side, with the lower slope being steeper than the upper one. This design provides more living space on the upper floor while also allowing for better drainage and snow removal.

Characteristics of Dutch Colonial House Design

In addition to the gambrel roof, Dutch colonial house design has several other key characteristics. These include:

Symmetrical Facade:

Dutch colonial homes are typically symmetrical, with the front door in the center and an equal number of windows on either side.

Central Front Door:

The front door of a Dutch colonial home is typically located in the center of the house, with an equal number of windows on either side.

Double-Hung Windows with Shutters:

Double-hung windows are a common feature of Dutch colonial homes. These windows have two sashes that slide up and down, and they are often fitted with shutters for privacy and to control light.

Incorporating Dutch Colonial House Design into Your Home

If you’re interested in incorporating Dutch colonial house design into your home, there are several ways to do so. Here are a few ideas:

Gambrel Roof:

Consider adding a gambrel roof to your home to create more living space on the upper floor.

Central Front Door:

Place your front door in the center of your home to create a symmetrical façade.

Double-Hung Windows with Shutters:

Install double-hung windows with shutters to give your home a classic look and to control light and privacy.

Wraparound Porch:

Consider adding a wraparound porch to your home to create a welcoming entrance and to provide additional outdoor living space.

Conclusion

Dutch colonial house design is a classic style that has endured the test of time. Its key characteristics, including the gambrel roof, symmetrical façade, central front door, and double-hung windows with shutters, make it a popular choice for homeowners. If you’re interested in incorporating Dutch colonial house design into your home, consider adding a gambrel roof, central front door, double-hung windows with shutters, or a wraparound porch. With these elements, you can create a home that’s both classic and timeless.